What Does a Certified Ergonomist Do — And Does Your Company Need One?

What Is Ergonomics, Really?

Ergonomics is the science of designing the work environment to fit the worker — not the other way around. It encompasses physical factors (workstation setup, posture, movement), cognitive factors (mental load, focus, fatigue), and environmental factors (lighting, noise, temperature).

It is not just about setting up the computer to the right height or choosing an adjustable table or chair. There is a lot more to it than that. When ergonomics is poor, the result is musculoskeletal disorders, reduced output, increased absenteeism, and higher workers' compensation costs.

What a Certified Ergonomist Does

A certified ergonomist evaluates each of these dimensions systematically. In a corporate setting, this typically involves observing workers in their natural environment, assessing workstation configuration, analysing posture and movement patterns, identifying risk factors for injury, and producing a written report with prioritised, actionable recommendations.

Beyond individual assessments, ergonomists also design workplace wellness programmes, advise on equipment procurement (chairs, monitors, standing desks), and train employees and managers on best practices.

The Difference Between an Ergonomist and a Physiotherapist or Chiropractor

A physiotherapist or chiropractor treats musculoskeletal conditions after they develop. An ergonomist works upstream — identifying and removing the environmental factors that cause those conditions in the first place.

The most effective approach combines both: professional treatment to address existing problems, and ergonomic intervention to prevent recurrence. This is why Dr. Kelvin's dual certification as both a Doctor of Chiropractic and a Certified Ergonomist (by The American Posture Institute) is particularly valuable — he bridges clinical care with workplace prevention in a way few practitioners in Singapore can.

What Qualifications Does an Ergonomist Need in Singapore?

There is no single mandatory licence for ergonomists in Singapore, but recognised certifications include those from the Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics (BCPE) in the USA, and the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF) in the UK. Practitioners should also have a relevant academic background in health sciences, engineering, or occupational health.

Dr. Kelvin holds his Certified Ergonomist credential from The American Posture Institute, in addition to his Doctor of Chiropractic degree (Summa Cum Laude) from Sherman College of Chiropractic, USA — making him uniquely positioned to combine clinical and ergonomic expertise.

Does Your Company Need One?

If your employees spend more than four hours a day at a desk, if you have had musculoskeletal-related medical certificates or workers' compensation claims, or if you are setting up a new office or hybrid work policy — a professional ergonomic assessment is a sound investment.

According to OSHA data, ergonomic interventions deliver an average return of $4 for every $1 spent, primarily through reduced absenteeism and improved productivity. For most Singapore organisations, a single ergonomic assessment pays for itself within months.

What Happens During an Ergonomic Assessment With Dr. Kelvin?

Dr. Kelvin conducts individual and corporate ergonomic assessments both virtually and onsite across Singapore. Each assessment covers four evidence-based components: workers' functional capacity, employee posture, brain-based performance needs, and the physical workplace environment.

At the end of every assessment, a detailed written report is provided with specific, prioritised recommendations — so your organisation knows exactly what to address, and in what order.